Neixiang upgrades local hotels in pursuit of '5-A' tourism award

Nanyang's Neixiang county in Henan province has held a training course for local hotel owners to improve their quality of service, as the region launches a campaign to attain a "5-A" tourism rating.

Baotianmen, a part of Funiu Mountain World Geological Park that has been named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve due to its diverse and well-preserved ecosystem, was awarded as 4-A scenic spot in 2008. But the local government has vowed to achieve 5-A status, the highest national standard for tourist attractions, to give the local tourism industry a further boost.

However, tourist destinations applying for the 5-A award need to meet demanding requirements in several areas, including the quality of local infrastructure, environment and accommodation.

Neixiang therefore organized a training session for owners of farm stays near Baotianmen, inviting experts from local tourism associations to introduce modern hotel management and service methods.

Zhang Di, vice-manager of the 4-star Neixiang Tiangui International Hotel, gave a presentation on hotel etiquette, reception manners and table management.

The leader of Neixiang's food inspection agency also gave a detailed explanation of hotel food safety regulations.

The training session was well-received, and it is hoped that it will play a major role in helping the region attain the 5-A standard.